Ethical and Legal Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Infection Prevention and Control: A Saudi Arabian Perspective

Abstract Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming infection prevention and control (IPC) by enabling earlier outbreak detection, enhanced monitoring, and improved patient safety. In Saudi Arabia, these innovations align with Vision 2030 and national strategies led by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority. However, rapid AI adoption raises significant ethical and legal concerns, particularly regarding patient rights, data protection, algorithmic bias, and accountability. This article critically examines the ethical and legal challenges of integrating AI in IPC within the Saudi healthcare system and proposes a framework that incorporates global standards, national legislation, and Islamic bioethical principles. A doctrinal legal-ethical analysis was conducted using international ethical guidelines, Saudi laws – especially the Personal Data Protection Law – and scholarly input from Saudi legal experts. Core Islamic bioethical concepts of maslahah (public interest), adl (justice), and amanah (trust) were integrated to ensure cultural and ethical relevance. The findings reveal key gaps in informed consent processes, risks of bias in AI-driven decisions, challenges in ensuring transparency, and unresolved issues of data ownership and liability. Incorporating Islamic bioethics alongside legal provisions strengthens the legitimacy and applicability of AI governance in IPC. This article presents the first integrated Saudi legal–ethical framework for AI in IPC, offering a balanced approach that supports technological innovation while safeguarding patient rights and cultural values. The framework provides practical guidance for policymakers, healthcare institutions, and AI developers in fostering responsible AI adoption in Saudi healthcare.